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Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

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A bold, flavor-packed dinner featuring tender chicken in a creamy, spicy Cajun sauce.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 12 oz penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti
  • Salt for the pasta water
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
  • Red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Fresh lemon juice (optional)
  • Sautéed vegetables (optional)
  • Shrimp (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. Prepare the Chicken: Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side until cooked through. Let rest and slice thinly.
  3. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika.
  4. Build the Sauce: Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring well. Let it simmer for a few minutes. Add Parmesan cheese and adjust with pasta water if too thick.
  5. Combine Everything: Add cooked pasta and sliced chicken, tossing to coat in the sauce. Add sautéed veggies if desired.
  6. Final Touches: Remove from heat and stir in fresh lemon juice and parsley. Season with extra salt and pepper if needed.

Notes

For extra flavor and nutrition, add sautéed veggies like bell peppers or spinach. Shrimp can be used instead of chicken for a seafood twist.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cajun chicken pasta, creamy pasta, easy dinner recipe, flavorful pasta, spicy chicken dish

Find it online: https://basilboard.com/creamy-cajun-chicken-pasta-bold-flavor-packed-dinner/